Method for preparation of stabilized carboxylated cellulose

摘要

The invention is directed to a method of making a heat and light stable carboxylated cellulose fiber whose fiber strength and degree of polymerization is not significantly sacrificed. The method involves the use of a catalytic amount of a hindered cyclic oxammonium salt as a primary oxidant and a peracid and halide salt as a secondary oxidant in an aqueous environment. The oxammonium compounds may be formed in situ from their corresponding amine, hydroxylamine, and nitroxyl compounds. The oxidized cellulose is then stabilized against D.P. loss and color reversion by further treatment with an oxidant such as sodium chlorite, a chlorine dioxide/hydrogen peroxide mixture, or a peracid under acidic conditions. Alternatively it may be treated with a reducing agent such as sodium borohydride. The method results in a high percentage of carboxyl groups located at the fiber surface. The product is especially useful as a papermaking fiber where it contributes strength and has a higher attraction for cationic additives. The product is also useful as an additive to recycled fiber to increase strength. The method can be used to improve properties of either virgin or recycled fiber. It does not require high alpha -cellulose fiber but is suitable for regular market pulps.